Islington libraries turn over a new leaf
Islington libraries threw open their doors on National Libraries Day to welcome even more residents with a new and improved offer for readers young and old.
Library users can choose from homework clubs, family-friendly activities, a vast range of magazine and newspapers on the internet, eBooks and health and wellbeing titles - all for free.
This month, Islington's library service launches a new 'Books on Prescription' service for residents with dementia, their families and carers - with books, CDs and audio to support those affected by the disease.
Cllr Janet Burgess, Islington Council's executive member for health and wellbeing said:
"Islington libraries are changing with the times and keeping up with the diverse needs of our residents as well as the latest technology.
"Reading can be of great benefit to the elderly and unwell - as the Books on Prescription service recognises.
"So for those affected by dementia, we now offer free access to a range of self-help titles to fight isolation and provide practical advice."
The new scheme will also help the many people living without a formal dementia diagnosis, who may be worrying about symptoms and wanting to find out more.
Titles include 'Grandma' for children, 'Alzheimers: Answers at your fingertips' for carers, picture books for Dementia sufferers, and the novel 'Still Alice', now made into an Oscar-nominated film.
Islington library users can now access over 3,000 online newspapers and magazines from around the world for free, using the libraries App service.
Residents joining their local library before 23 April will also be entered into a prize draw to win an iPad, shopping vouchers and a tour of Emirates Stadium.
Library users can choose from homework clubs, family-friendly activities, a vast range of magazine and newspapers on the internet, eBooks and health and wellbeing titles - all for free.
This month, Islington's library service launches a new 'Books on Prescription' service for residents with dementia, their families and carers - with books, CDs and audio to support those affected by the disease.
Cllr Janet Burgess, Islington Council's executive member for health and wellbeing said:
"Islington libraries are changing with the times and keeping up with the diverse needs of our residents as well as the latest technology.
"Reading can be of great benefit to the elderly and unwell - as the Books on Prescription service recognises.
"So for those affected by dementia, we now offer free access to a range of self-help titles to fight isolation and provide practical advice."
The new scheme will also help the many people living without a formal dementia diagnosis, who may be worrying about symptoms and wanting to find out more.
Titles include 'Grandma' for children, 'Alzheimers: Answers at your fingertips' for carers, picture books for Dementia sufferers, and the novel 'Still Alice', now made into an Oscar-nominated film.
Islington library users can now access over 3,000 online newspapers and magazines from around the world for free, using the libraries App service.
Residents joining their local library before 23 April will also be entered into a prize draw to win an iPad, shopping vouchers and a tour of Emirates Stadium.
Notes to editors
* National Libraries Day was on Saturday 7 February
* Reading Well Books on Prescription for dementia follows the success of Reading Well Books on Prescription for common mental health conditions
The initiative supports development of dementia-friendly communities and builds understanding and awareness of the condition.
* For more information about Reading Well, go to: http://readingagency.org.uk/
Contact information
If you are a member of the public with a general question about the council please view the contact information on our website or call 020 7527 2000.